Contents
Description
Tetraena Alba, also known as White Spine or White Thorn, is a drought-tolerant shrub native to the deserts of southwestern USA and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Tetraena |
Appearance
Tetraena Alba is a small, slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of 3-5 feet and a width of 4-6 feet. It has woody stems covered with white spines and small, green leaves that are alternate and compound. The leaves are about 0.5-1 inch long and have 4-6 leaflets that are linear to oblong in shape. During the spring and summer months, Tetraena Alba produces small, white to pale yellow flowers that are about 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, spherical fruits that are about 0.25 inches in diameter and contain one or two seeds.
Care Guide
– Water: Tetraena Alba is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little water once established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Tetraena Alba prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. – Sunlight: Tetraena Alba prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Tetraena Alba is hardy in USDA zones 8a-11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetraena Alba is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is poorly drained.
Habitat
Tetraena Alba is native to the deserts and arid regions of southwestern USA and northern Mexico. It is commonly found in rocky or sandy soils and can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tetraena Alba be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Tetraena Alba can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered and fertilized regularly.Q: Is Tetraena Alba deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Tetraena Alba is deer-resistant due to its spiny stems and leaves.Q: Can Tetraena Alba be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Tetraena Alba can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.Q: Does Tetraena Alba have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Tetraena Alba has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Related Plants
– Tetraena fontanesii- Larrea tridentata- Zygophyllum fabago- Fagonia laevis
References
– “Tetraena Alba.” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/206215/- “Tetraena Alba.” DesertUSA. https://www.desertusa.com/flora/tetraena-alba.html- “Tetraena Alba.” World of Succulents. https://worldofsucculents.com/tetraena-alba-white-spine/
